So I have run into a slight problem. To successfully dye the fabric I will need access to a gas hob and a well ventilated space so I have had to go back to the drawing board in some aspects. As I have just done a trail on my intended method of fabric dying the process is extremely time consuming of up to three hours, plus drying time. So I really did have to have a bit of a re-think.
As my collaborative partners are my family my thoughts have changed slightly as to what the resolved artwork will be. I still intend to explore and use the natural dying processes within the artwork but I will change the way they are being used. This will create a more structured workshop for my collaborative partners and make it a more enjoyable and less taxing experience.
Location:
Location within the collaboration is important to me and as I am planning on conducting the workshop in my garden as it is an incredibly intimate and healing space for us all. Also, it is a benefit in regards to making a mess as it will wash off the grass and gravel. The setting is far better as you are surrounded by birds and the faint scent of flowers making it an enjoyable experience for all.
This is the intended workshop space. Plant pots will be moved and a large table/ workbench will be introduced to work on top of. This will provide all participants enough space to work and will allow them to sit or stand.
Further developments within the project:
I have decided to pre-dye all of the fabric in preparation for the session due to how time-consuming the process is and instead of having a large selection of tapestry’s made by each individual I am planning on making them into individual scented beanbags. I believe this will give the artwork a greater personal meaning to everyone involved and will allow a better opportunity for conversations to be had during the collaborative process.